Factors influencing recruitment process outsourcing success in Lebanon

Abstract

Purpose - This research attempts to analyze the impact of various factors on the decision of Lebanese companies to outsource the recruitment function and on the relationship between the Recruitment Service Provider (RSP) and the client firm. Design/Methodology/Approach - This study relies on a sample of 206 HR Professionals and General Managers who either outsource their recruitment function or not. This research is deductive and quantitative in nature, and it tests 19 hypotheses using principle component analysis and regression analysis. Findings - The fmdings show that there are 11 different factors that play a role in the decision of Lebanese companies to outsource and in the relationship between the RSP and the client. These factors are: company size, level of the vacant position, partnership quality, service quality, trust, cost reduction, person-job fit, ability of the internal HR department to focus on core functions, competition from other recruitment sources, age of relationship and mutual dependency, RSP's reputation and local presence. Research limitations/Implications - Due to the fact that the target participants were limited to HR Professionals and General Managers, the sample could not be increased above 206. Additionally, due to the centralization of most companies in Beirut and Metn areas, the samples representing other areas in Lebanon were very small in number. Practical Implications - The fmdings of this research provide a valuable insight to Lebanese companies that are seeking to outsource their recruitment function and to RSP s that are targeting companies in the Lebanese market. It allows both parties to get a clearer picture about how to enhance the relationship and gain maximum benefit from partnering together. Originality/Value - This study is quantitative in nature and provides reliable and measurable information about the factors influencing recruitment process outsourcing. Being unique of its kind in Lebanon, it will assist companies to get a clear perspective about the Lebanese market.